Tips for a Tidy Shoe Drop-off Zone

Allison Bloom, an interior designer in San Francisco, believes you can outfit the entry with a boot-and-shoe drop-off zone and still provide a warm welcome. Here, she explains how.

SIZE UP THE SPACE: You can create storage in even a small area as long as you have a wall to work with—one far enough away from the door to allow it to fully open, yet close enough that people can see to place their shoes there.

Photo by Aubrie Pick

San Francisco interior designer Allison Bloom

ADD FURNITURE OR A BUILT-IN: Built-ins are a great solution in tight spaces. A bench with a shoe rack (like the built-in shown) can work—you do need a place to sit while removing or putting on shoes. Make sure the rack is hefty enough not to be knocked over. I prefer freestanding pieces—they tend to offer more character.

KEEP IT TIDY: You don’t have to completely hide shoes and boots to keep the space neat. Baskets and bins work well. Even a simple metal tray will help minimize visual clutter.